Shillong: Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong has called for a detailed review of the proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, stressing that the changes would apply to all organisations receiving foreign contributions and not only Christian institutions. (Meghalaya Times)
Tynsong welcomed the decision to refer the FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026 to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for detailed examination. He said concerns raised by non governmental organisations, including Christian organisations, should be examined during the parliamentary process.
The committee also includes Meghalaya Rajya Sabha MP James Pangsang Kongkal Sangma as a special invitee. His inclusion followed efforts by the Meghalaya government to ensure that the concerns of the Northeast are represented during discussions on the proposed legislation. (India Today NE)
The debate has intensified in Meghalaya amid concerns over provisions that could affect organisations dependent on foreign funding for their activities. Church and community groups have highlighted the role of foreign funded institutions in operating schools, colleges, hospitals, hostels and welfare programmes, particularly in remote parts of the state.
Congress MP Saleng Sangma has also sought support from representatives and groups in several countries to draw attention to concerns surrounding the proposed amendments. He has said that international representations could help highlight the issue before the central government. (Northeast Live TV)
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has previously sought wider consultations on the proposed changes, particularly over provisions concerning the handling of assets. The state government has also announced plans to establish an FCRA Cell under the Home Department to assist organisations with applications, renewals and compliance-related matters. (Meghalaya Times)
With the Bill now before the Joint Parliamentary Committee, its provisions will undergo further examination before the committee submits its report to Parliament. (Hub News Assam)
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